This paper explores the complex and shifting dimensions of the social, cultural and bodily differences that impact on learners and their learning. Our theoretical argument proceeds in five stages. First, we build a typology of terms used to classify demographic differences for the purposes of designing, implementing and evaluating the…

This paper explores the role of narrative in the Stoneleigh Project, an outdoor retreat approach to supporting marginalised young people in becoming agents of personal and social change. The metaphor of a journey, developed by sociological writers, is applied to the transition of young people to adulthood. Undertaken as a narrative enquiry, the…

Education involves the learner with his own potential, with the values of ideas, with people and human affairs and these involvements are basic to the individual's growth and effectiveness. (IR)

Substantial differences among late adolescents who possessed different levels of satisfaction with life showed up in relation to leisure time enjoyment, religious involvement, health, friendships, and personal efficacy. Almost one-third of the sample studied had not come through their adolescences feeling good about their lives. (Author/GC)

This article explores the impact of internal barriers, priorities, and personal decisions on the realization of the potential of gifted females. Dilemmas relating to family, fear of success, the development of resilience, multi-potentiality, absence of planning, confusion about effort and ability, perfectionism, unreal expectations, and loneliness…

Although gifted children have been the subject of investigation for 60 years, little information is available on gifted adults, particularly in regard to life satisfaction. To investigate life satisfaction in adults who as children were labeled as gifted, 298 adults, with a mean age of 27, completed a Likert-type instrument measuring degree of…

Suggestions for research on the components of self-theory development over a lifetime are examined. Self-theory, like other knowledge, is dependent on the theories in one's culture about human nature and the biological, social, and physical world. Language expands or limits the concepts available for thinking about one's self-image or sense of…

Argues that some familiarity with postmodern theories of the self may help beginning teachers come to terms with their own problems of establishing a strong sense of selfhood and authenticity. Briefly reviews the Cartesian-inspired idea of the self and contrasts that with the postmodern recognition of the modern self. (MJP)

The Ehrhardt Training Seminar (E.S.T.) program is but one example of a self-help technique based on the premise that people will improve their personal lives and professional effectiveness to the extent that they can "break through the act" to discern the real self which is full of capacity and power when released from fear and constraint. Many…

This guide, designed for use with elementary school students, attempts to prevent drug and alcohol abuse among students. The Key Competencies program identifies areas in which addicted children differ from non-addicted: poor self image, an improper sense of values, and a lack of identity. For kindergarten through third grade, strategies are…

Mark is the central character in this story designed to help adolescents formulate a philosophy of values. The story is well suited for use in high school social studies courses and/or in philosophy or guidance units. Mark's thoughts and actions are reported as he interacts with his family, friends, acquaintances, and individuals of authority…

Explores the impact of a personal development project on the attitudes, behavior, and understanding of British high school students. The study circulated questionnaires to students from nine different locations in two districts. Responses clearly demonstrated that Personal Development Planning results in more appropriate choices being made at key…